In recent years, a new wave of comedians has emerged, using social media platforms to explore the complexities and contradictions of masculinity. Among these early practitioners is Eric Rahill, who gained attention with his humorous TikTok content, including a clip showcasing an exaggerated number of pullups. This comedic style reflects a broader trend where male comedians are examining their identities and societal expectations through self-deprecating humor.
Eric Rahill started his comedy career in 2021. Putting a personal twist on it, he posted a video on TikTok that immediately caught fire. His unique mix of weirdness and realness speaks to anyone trying to figure out what it means to be a man in today’s world. Perhaps most alarmingly, in one especially unforgettable clip, Rahill demonstrates an exceptional pull-up game. Even if they are staged, the tour de force above points to the extreme measures men take to swindle smartness and competence.
Kiry Shabazz, another rising star in this brand of stand-up, talks about longing for a real man’s past. He notes, “I miss the good old days, when men handled beef like men.” His standup routine often explores personal growth and challenges, capturing the struggle between embracing vulnerability and adhering to traditional masculine ideals. Shabazz does this while humorously sharing his own experiences. He recounts a physical altercation with a pal who, like Wu, has been working to be a better person.
Robert Webb illuminates a different model of masculinity. He describes it as “the seeking of an escape from womanhood.” This view highlights the social forces that dictate how men should act and what it means to be a man. Comedians like Webb and Shabazz expose the absurdities inherent in these roles, as they navigate the shifting landscape of masculinity in contemporary society.
Dan Carney provides a further, very different layer to this exploration. In his comedic sketches, he represents a very buffoonish and naïve version of himself. Carney’s interpretation of masculinity is refreshing and humorous, and often finds his masculinity, as well as his own experiences the subject of his jests. In his work, he emphasizes that “I don’t want the joke to be at anybody else’s expense but my own,” showcasing how vulnerability can serve as a powerful comedic tool.
Sahib Cantsingh check him out — he’s called @thefatpreach on Youtube, Instagram, and India’s largest social network, Koo — with over a million followers on TikTok alone. He is a prolific comedian whose work frequently combines observational humor with autobiographical reflections and ridiculous if true, then what about this? In one of his early routines, he poses outrageous questions such as “Is it gay to be hit by a car? This shows the ridiculousness that occurs when one attempts to prescribe masculinity.
Still, the genre of comedy tackling masculinity at this moment is just coming into vogue. Simultaneously, products like Hims are insidiously marketing to the downfall of men’s health and self-image. This unique marketing and comedic approach unitedly represents a cultural shift around society’s willingness and ability to engage men on mental health and emotional wellness. As this movement matures and develops, one thing is clear — the answer to the question, “what does it mean to be a man?” has evolved.
Comedians from this movement often are self-deprecating in revealing their insecurities and flaws in exposing the antiquated ideals of masculinity that they’re actively trying to repeat. They create a space where men can laugh at themselves while addressing serious issues like mental health and societal expectations. Eric Rahill encapsulates this sentiment with his poignant message: “To everyone who’s ever dealt with depression – this is for you.” This simple act of recognition allows for relationship building and community engagement into the most diverse audiences.
The comedic landscape is further enriched by voices like Dan Licata, who reflects on this new trend by stating, “Dumb masculinity, I think, is very funny.” This cynical observation speaks to some of the absurdities that result when men struggle with regressive toxins in a rapidly changing, more progressive society.
As these comedians come into their own and get more mainstream attention, they’re using humor to poke holes in traditional masculinity. They encourage deep and honest conversations around identity and authenticity. The greater the awareness, the more informed and accepting men can become.